Beauty And The Beast Name Of The Beast
Beauty and the Beast is a classic fairy tale that has been beloved for generations. The story follows a young woman named Belle, who is taken prisoner by a monstrous beast in exchange for her father's freedom. Over time, Belle and the Beast begin to develop a deep connection, and Belle eventually falls in love with him. In this article, we delve into the origins of the beast's name and explore its significance in the story.
The Origins of the Beast's Name
The name "Beast" has its origins in the French fairy tale La Belle et la Bête, which was first published in 1740 by Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve. In the original tale, the Beast is referred to as "le monstre," which means "the monster" in French. However, in later versions of the story, the name "Beast" became more commonly used.
The name "Beast" is significant because it emphasizes the creature's animalistic nature. The Beast is not just a human with flaws or imperfections; he is a wild, savage creature that is feared by all who come into contact with him. This makes his transformation into a gentle and loving being all the more powerful.
Another interesting aspect of the Beast's name is that it is not a given name, but rather a descriptor. Unlike other fairy tale characters such as Cinderella or Snow White, the Beast is not given a name that reflects his personality or character traits. Instead, his name simply describes his physical appearance and behavior.
The Significance of the Beast's Name
The name "Beast" is significant in several ways throughout the story. First, it serves as a reminder of the Beast's initial appearance and behavior. When Belle first encounters the Beast, she is terrified by his monstrous appearance and aggressive behavior. The name "Beast" reinforces this initial impression and serves as a constant reminder of the creature's wild nature.
However, as Belle gets to know the Beast and sees his true nature, the significance of his name begins to change. Rather than being a reminder of his monstrous appearance, the name "Beast" becomes a symbol of his transformation. The Beast is no longer just a wild creature, but a complex and multifaceted character who is capable of love and compassion.
Furthermore, the name "Beast" serves as a contrast to Belle's own name. Belle means "beautiful" in French, which emphasizes her physical appearance and her status as a desirable object. In contrast, the Beast's name emphasizes his inner nature and his lack of physical beauty. This contrast highlights the theme of inner beauty versus outward appearance that is central to the story.
Conclusion
The name "Beast" is a significant aspect of the classic fairy tale Beauty and the Beast. It emphasizes the creature's animalistic nature and serves as a reminder of his initial appearance and behavior. However, as the story progresses, the significance of the Beast's name changes, and it becomes a symbol of his transformation and inner nature. The contrast between Belle's name and the Beast's name highlights the theme of inner beauty versus outward appearance that is central to the story.